Rangers are yet to determine whether they will progress in discussions with Danny Rohl, as Kevin Muscat remains a potential candidate to take over at Ibrox. Rohl, the former Sheffield Wednesday manager, emerged as the top contender for the role after Steven Gerrard withdrew from contention. The 36-year-old had a meeting with the Rangers board last week and made a positive impression on club chiefs.
While at least one major figure is keen to give Rohl the job, others have expressed concerns and suggested more seasoned alternatives. Ex-Rangers player Muscat is one of those being promoted internally. He currently manages Chinese Super League team Shanghai Port, who are in the running for the title.
Muscat has not yet been approached by Rangers, who are further along in their negotiations with Rohl. The latter was considered for the role over the summer, prior to Russell Martin’s unpopular appointment.
However, that was quickly ruled out when his £2.5million release clause came to light. Having since left Sheffield Wednesday, he is now available without a fee.
Rohl’s coaching career includes stints at Bayern Munich, Southampton, Red Bull Leipzig and the German national team. If given the green light, he would need to assemble his backroom staff, ideally including someone with strong connections at Rangers.
Last week, Ibrox officials travelled to London to meet with several potential candidates. It appeared Gerrard was set for a comeback but ultimately turned down the opportunity.
Ex-Croatia and West Ham United boss Slaven Bilic has witnessed his odds plummet significantly, though Rohl continues as the clear frontrunner.
Meanwhile, it surfaced yesterday evening that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is likely to have held talks with the Ibrox powerbrokers.
Manchester United icon Paul Scholes accidentally hinted at this on the Good Bad Football podcast.
Scholes revealed: “I was actually with a lad the other night who told me he was actually going to meet Rangers.
“I’m not sure if he did but his name’s not been mentioned. I don’t think he was going for it. They contacted him and he was going to meet him in London the day after.”
When pressed whether the mystery figure had managed United, Scholes grinned: “No comment.”
Rangers’ international stars are expected back within the next 24 to 48 hours ahead of their crucial clash with Dundee United this weekend.
Reserve coach Steven Smith has been overseeing training alongside fitness coach Rhys Owen and goalkeeping coach Sal Bibbo.